NY State Allocates $67 Million For Bike & Pedestrian Paths

It's not just New York City that'll be treated to new bike lanes in the near future: today, Governor Cuomo announced he'll be allocating $67 million in funding to build more bike and pedestrian paths across the state. We'll be getting almost $15 million for specific bike lane projects (see below).

The funding aims to bolster 63 bicycle, pedestrian and multi-use path transportation enhancement projects statewide, covering about 80 percent of the cost of each State DOT-helmed project; the rest of the funds will be covered by a project sponsor. And beyond new bike and pedestrian facilities, projects will focus on adding more accessible sidewalks, improving access to public transportation for pedestrians, and the rehabilitation of unused railroad corridors for trail use.

"We are modernizing New York State’s transportation system while making it safer,” Cuomo announced yesterday. “From building new facilities for bicycles and pedestrians to supporting historic highway programs, these projects will provide new tourism and recreational opportunities for New Yorkers and visitors. We will continue to upgrade New York’s infrastructure to expand tourism and economic development while improving our communities."

New York City will receive $14.8 million in funding, which will support projects like the adding bicycle and pedestrian lanes on the Pulaski Bridge (FINALLY!), the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway-Gowanus connector and an expansion of the Hell Gate bridge's pedestrian and bicycle paths. Dozens of bike and pedestrian initiatives on Long Island, in Westchester and Rockland Counties and upstate will see an increase in funding as well.